Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News Editorials & Other Articles General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

T_i_B

(14,805 posts)
Sun Oct 13, 2019, 05:58 AM Oct 2019

Labour Party risks bankruptcy over antisemitism investigation, executive members fear

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/labour-party-bankruptcy-antisemitism-investigation-corbyn-executive-a9153561.html

Members of Labour’s ruling executive have privately voiced fears that the party could be bankrupted as a result of an official inquiry into antisemitism, The Independent has learnt.

Members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) have expressed concerns that a damning verdict from the equalities watchdog about Labour’s handling of antisemitic abuse could open the party up to a slew of lawsuits from Jewish members and former members, possibly resulting in hefty damages having to be paid.

It is understood that the issue was discussed at a recent NEC meeting, with members of the committee voicing major concerns about the fallout from the probe and who would be financially responsible. Party bosses were asked what protections are in place for a scenario in which Labour has to cover the cost of multiple legal battles and potential payouts. Two sources said the discussion was quickly “shut down” by party officials and allies of Jeremy Corbyn, and that the committee remains in the dark about the potential financial implications.

Some NEC members are worried that the financial situation could become unmanageable if the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) finds that the party has failed to protect Jewish members. Amid growing concern about the outcome of the inquiry, several NEC members are understood to have asked officials what indemnity Labour has, following fears that members of the committee may have to personally foot the bill if the party runs out of money. They believe that, like trustees of a charity, they are legally and financially responsible for the party.


2 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
Labour Party risks bankruptcy over antisemitism investigation, executive members fear (Original Post) T_i_B Oct 2019 OP
I would sue them - so I can see why they would be concerned Soph0571 Oct 2019 #1
There has already been some debate on Twitter... T_i_B Oct 2019 #2

Soph0571

(9,685 posts)
1. I would sue them - so I can see why they would be concerned
Sun Oct 13, 2019, 07:33 AM
Oct 2019

Or - it may be a way to try and raise some money from the membership?

T_i_B

(14,805 posts)
2. There has already been some debate on Twitter...
Sun Oct 13, 2019, 07:48 AM
Oct 2019

...about what Labour's legal status is, and who would be financially liable if they do end up having to pay out over this problem. It could possibly be all Labour members who end up being financially liable, or just those elected to the NEC.

Oh for the days when Labour weren't such a mess and could hold the government to account properly.

Latest Discussions»Region Forums»United Kingdom»Labour Party risks bankru...